Loosely Assembled Wellbore Isolation Assembly Without Mandrel
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Solution Overview
Problem
Traditional wellbore isolation devices require an internal mandrel, which increases size and cost, and may not efficiently adapt to varying wellbore orientations and environments.
Innovation Solution
A wellbore isolation assembly composed of discrete components without an internal mandrel, where each component is axially abutted to form a common bore, and secured using shrinkwrap, elastic bands, or adhesives, allowing for flexible assembly and deployment with a setting device, including downhole degradable metals for environmental compatibility.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If an internal mandrel is used to support discrete components, then structural integrity is improved, but device size and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent removes the internal mandrel from the wellbore isolation device, extracting this central supporting structure entirely. The discrete components are instead supported by the setting device itself, eliminating the need for a separate internal mandrel and thereby reducing device size and cost while maintaining structural integrity through the setting device's support.
Solution Approach 2:
The setting device is given a dual function: it serves both as the conveyance mechanism for deploying the isolation device and as the support structure for the discrete components. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for a dedicated internal mandrel, reducing overall device complexity and size.
2Strength
If an internal mandrel is used to support discrete components, then structural integrity is improved, but manufacturing cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
By extracting the internal mandrel from the design, the patent eliminates the manufacturing costs associated with producing this separate component. The discrete components are manufactured independently and assembled on the setting device, reducing overall manufacturing complexity and cost.
Solution Approach 2:
The isolation device is segmented into discrete components that can be manufactured separately using standard manufacturing processes, then assembled on the setting device. This segmentation eliminates the need for complex integrated mandrel manufacturing and allows for more cost-effective production of individual components.
3Volume of moving object
If discrete components are loosely assembled without an internal mandrel, then device size is reduced, but assembly complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the setting device with the support function previously performed by the internal mandrel. The discrete components are assembled directly on the setting device, merging two functions into one system and simplifying the overall assembly process while maintaining reduced device size.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
This configuration reduces the size and cost of wellbore isolation devices, enhances flexibility in wellbore orientations, and ensures effective sealing through compressive force application, while the degradable materials facilitate environmental compatibility.
Implementation Method 1
at least one of the plurality of discrete components comprises a downhole degradable metal
Data Source
AI summary
A wellbore isolation assembly including a plurality of discrete components each having an inner bore with a center axis, the plurality of discrete components axially abuttable such that each of the inner bores align to form a common bore, the plurality of discrete components including a fixing element; and a sealing element; wherein the plurality of discrete components are integrable by a setting device receivable through the common bore, and wherein application of a compressive force to the plurality of discrete components urges the fixing element and the sealing element to radially extend, relative to the axis of the common bore.